Come with me to a primary classroom in a small village school, where a young teacher is introducing her class to the idea of alternative energy sources. She knows what she is talking about and therefore she is able to teach with confidence. Not only does she know what to say she knows how to say it in a way that her pupils will understand. The teacher is explaining the basics of solar power, wind power and the power created by water. She obviously knows what she is talking about but it is also clear that she cares about alternative forms of energy. She speaks with an enthusiasm which is infectious and as a result the children want to know more. Our teacher realises that children are individuals with different learning styles and her weekly planning reflects this. However as we watch today’s lesson unfold we see her encourage the children to research the various forms of alternative energy using the books provided and then use mind-maps to record their findings. She also knows that children have strengths and weaknesses and that some of her children will find today’s task difficult to complete without support. With this in mind she decides to work more closely with this group of children. The lesson ends with a class discussion, giving the children the opportunity to share their work. The young teacher encourages contributions from as many of her pupils as possible. Some of the children haven’t completed their work and future lessons will involve further individual research but the teacher understands the value of being both flexible and patient. According to one American university our teacher is a true example of an outstanding teacher. I quote… “An outstanding teacher is knowledgeable, an effective communicator, enthusiastic, and encouraging. They understand different learning styles, are adaptable and are patient.” …in which case an outstanding teacher can be male or female, young or older, working in a small country school or in a large city, in this country or abroad…an outstanding teacher could look like you!